Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Penstemon digitalis 'Dakota Burgundy'
Dakota Burgundy Beardtongue
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Height
- 30–36 inches
- Width
- 18-24 inches
- Flower color
- Lavender to violet to pink
- Foliage color
- Deep red to bronze, maturing to dark green
- Bloom time
- Early to mid-summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Maintenance
- Low; remove spent flowers to encourage rebloom; cut back in late winter or early spring
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3–8
- Wildlife
- Attracts hummingbirds
About this plant
Penstemon digitalis 'Dakota Burgundy' is a compact, bushy perennial that blooms from early to mid-summer, producing tubular flowers in shades of lavender, violet, and pink. Originating from hybridization efforts involving native beardtongues such as Penstemon digitalis and Penstemon calycosus, this cultivar was introduced by Terra Nova Nurseries in Oregon.
The plant features glossy, purple-black foliage that matures to dark green, providing year-round visual interest. Its dense, well-branched habit and excellent vigor make it a reliable choice for gardens, while its flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. 'Dakota Burgundy' is also deer-resistant, adding to its appeal in various landscape settings.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.
